Graduate Programs

Master of Science in Marine Science

Our program offers both an MSMS-A(applied) trackMSMS-T(thesis). Where better to learn about advanced marine science systems than on an island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean? Our students study at HPU’s Windward Hawaii Loa Campus in Kāne’ohe featuring 135 tropical acres with awe-inspiring views of O’ahu’s majestic Ko’olau Mountains. Marine Science classes and laboratory research also take place at the Oceanic Institute: a research and development facility dedicated to marine aquaculture, biotechnology, and coastal resource management. The Oceanic Institute is situated along the scenic southeastern coast of O’ahu at Makapu’u Point, near the community of Waimanalo.

The combination of a perfect location, unique research opportunities, dedicated faculty, and rigorous training propels our students toward exciting and rewarding careers in marine science.

Pre-Requisites

A baccalaureate degree in the Natural Sciences is required for entry into the MSMS program. Certain course prerequisites may be required before enrolling in graduate MSMS courses, depending on the student’s academic preparation and research interests.

For students in the thesis track, the graduate thesis committee will determine whether any deficiencies exist and how these deficiencies will be addressed. Additionally, being paired with a faculty mentor is necessary for acceptance into the MSMS-T track.

Program Outcomes

Students who successfully complete the Master of Science in Marine Science program will:

Demonstrate an interdisciplinary knowledge of marine systems.

Demonstrate the ability to plan and implement observational, theoretical, and experimental studies.

Interpret and critique professional scientific literature.

Demonstrate an advanced ability to apply and integrate scientific principles and research data to address complex questions in marine systems.

Open to MTS members who are college undergraduates and graduate students currently enrolled full time in a marine-related field who have shown a commitment to community service and/or volunteer activities